Paul Waring’s Historic Win at the Abu Dhabi Championship
England’s Paul Waring held off a stellar field to win the Abu Dhabi Championship, claiming his second European Tour title and his first in six years. The 39-year-old concluded his remarkable performance with a six-under-par 66 at Yas Links, finishing on 24 under par. Waring defeated countryman Tyrell Hatton by two shots, securing a victory that was as much about control as it was about skill.
Dramatic Final Round Helps Paul Waring Win Abu Dhabi Championship
Waring’s final round was full of drama. Tyrell Hatton, who finished with a 64, birdied the final two holes to close the gap, moving to 22 under and putting pressure on Waring. However, Waring responded with a sensational 40-foot birdie putt on the 17th, followed by another birdie on the last hole to seal the win.
Waring reflected on his achievement: “To keep control of myself in the way I did, I’m really proud of myself. I’m a bit taken aback right now,” he said. “My golf game has been in such a good place over the past year, I just haven’t put it all together. What a week for it to click together.”
Key Moments in Paul Waring’s Abu Dhabi Championship Victory
Waring’s course-record 11-under-par 61 in the second round was the highlight of his week, setting a new personal best and giving him a commanding five-shot lead. However, a third-round 73 allowed the chasing pack to close in. Despite the pressure from some of the DP World Tour’s biggest names, including two-time winner Tommy Fleetwood and former Open winner Shane Lowry, Waring remained steady, finishing strong to claim the title.
Rory McIlroy Challenges but Paul Waring Holds on in Abu Dhabi
While Waring held the lead, Rory McIlroy posted an impressive 64 in the final round to finish tied for third at 21 under. McIlroy, the leader of the Race to Dubai, set a target for himself and achieved it, ensuring his position as the favorite heading into the season finale in Dubai. Despite not winning, McIlroy was pleased with his performance, especially as it kept him one shot ahead of Thriston Lawrence in the Race to Dubai standings.
